A 30-year-old man from Port Colborne was charged with second-degree murder after a man from Niagara was shot on Oct. 8.
The accused was identified as Tyler Haas, who was arrested at the scene after Niagara Regional Police (NRP) officers responded to a call on Fares Street, north of Rodney Street at approximately 6:35 p.m.
When officers arrived with Niagara Emergency Medical Services, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim later died from his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.
The NRPS Homicide Unit took over the investigation, as the scene was secured to be examined by the NRPS Homicide and Forensic Services workers.
Certain details about the shooting are still under investigation, including Haas’ motive. However, police identified the victim as a 31-year-old Niagara Falls resident but had not released his name as of Oct. 9, as officers “were still in the process of informing next of kin.”
Investigators later shared that the victim’s name would not be released as request by his family.
Constable Richard Hingley of Niagara police said in a CHCH News article that investigators were still working to confirm the relationship between the victim and Haas through conducting interviews with those involved.
“We do know that they are known to each other.” Hingley told CHCH News. “The extent of that relationship is unknown, but that will, you know, work towards possibly a motive in this case.”
A press release by The Canadian Press shared that police said it was “an isolated incident” since the victim and accused knew each other. Police have also confirmed that no other suspects are being searched and there is no ongoing risk to public safety.
As the investigation is ongoing, the NRP advises that anyone with information about the shooting should contact the NRPS Homicide Unit at 905-688-4111.
Information can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Niagara at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online.